May 7, 2014

CFTC Announces Departure of Legislative Affairs Director John Riley

Acting Chairman Wetjen appoints Ted Serafini Acting Director

Washington, DC — Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Acting Chairman Mark P. Wetjen today announced that Legislative Affairs Director John Riley will depart the agency in May after a 30-year career in Federal service. Mr. Riley, a former Capitol Hill staffer, has led the Office of Legislative Affairs while Congress debated and passed landmark financial reform legislation and as the CFTC implemented its key provisions.

“During his 30 year career in public service, John has contributed his knowledge and experience to the benefit of this agency, to the Congress, and to the citizens we serve,” said Acting Chairman Wetjen. “His understanding of the legislative process helped the CFTC navigate the challenges of its expanded mandate under the Dodd-Frank Act and achieve the aims of that legislation more effectively. I and the entire CFTC team appreciate John’s tireless efforts during his tenure, and wish him well as he enters a new chapter.”

"John’s departure from public service is a loss to both Congress and the CFTC. I have enjoyed working with John, whose thoughtful and careful counsel I have relied upon during my time at the CFTC. I wish John the best in his future endeavors,” said CFTC Commissioner Scott O’Malia.

“The CFTC’s Commissioners were tremendous to work with. I am grateful to Acting Chairman Wetjen and Commissioner O’Malia for the support they so generously and consistently provided me; and to former Chairman Gary Gensler for giving me the opportunity to participate in the work of the CFTC. I also want to particularly express deep appreciation to my colleagues in the Office of Legislative Affairs as well as the Office of Public Affairs,” stated Mr. Riley.

Mr. Riley, who has no announced plans, will depart the Agency on May 9.

Prior to joining the Commission staff in 2009, Mr. Riley worked at the United States House of Representatives where he served as Deputy Chief of Staff for the Committee on Agriculture, Chaired by Rep. Collin C. Peterson. During his 18-year career at the Committee, Mr. Riley participated in its work on numerous laws including the Futures Trading Practices Act of 1992, the Commodity Futures Modernization Act of 2000, and the CFTC Reauthorization Act of 2008 (included in the 2008 Farm Bill). Before joining the Agriculture Committee staff in 1989, Mr. Riley worked for seven years at the House Committee on Rules when it was chaired by Rep. Claude D. Pepper and Rep. John Joseph Moakley. He also served in the personal office of Rep. Pepper from 1981 to 1983.

Today the agency also announced the appointment of Ted Serafini to serve as Acting Director of the CFTC’s Office of Legislative Affairs. Mr. Serafini has served the Commission for two years. Prior to joining the CFTC, Mr. Serafini served as the Deputy U.S. Trade Representative for Congressional Affairs and as a Legislative Assistant for former Arkansas Senator Blanche Lincoln on agriculture and trade issues. Mr. Serafini received his Juris Doctor from American University Washington College of Law and Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs and International Economics from Beloit College in Beloit, Wisconsin.

Last Updated: May 7, 2014